Stephan J. LaPointe, DPM, PhD, FACFAS
When fungi gets underneath the toenail, it’s very likely for toenail fungus to form. In order to tell if you have toenail fungus, it’s important you look out for certain signs. Common symptoms of this condition may include discoloration, thickening, or lifting of the nail. In some cases, it’s also been known for fungus to cause the affected toenail to crumble or split. As far as developing toenail fungus, certain factors may increase your likelihood. These factors may include living in a hot or humid climate, having athlete’s foot, being diabetic, spending a lot of time in the water, wearing tightly fitted shoes that cause the feet to sweat excessively, and having a weak immune system. If you feel you might have developed toenail fungus, it’s important you seek help as soon as possible. We recommend you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis can affect a person in many different ways. One form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout, which may often cause issues for the toes, specifically the big toe. Gout typically develops due to a buildup of uric acid when the body tries to break down purines found in foods. Dietary changes may be effective in reducing purine levels as well as the likelihood of a gout flare up. Drinking a lot of water may help with the swelling and inflammation that is often caused by gout. Another method of reducing gout-related inflammation, is by icing the affected joints and keeping the feet elevated. As far as reducing your purine levels, it’s advised that you avoid meats and fish such as bacon, turkey, scallops, and muscles, to name a few. For more advice on how to manage your gout, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
There are several foot conditions that can occur if your job consists of standing for the majority of the day. Your feet may feel achy, and cracked heels may develop if you stand on hard surfaces. Additionally, your feet may become swollen, and blisters may form from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There are several factors to look for in a work shoe. These can consist of choosing shoes that are enclosed and fastened, have adequate cushioning, and have a wide heel for ankle support. Additionally, it is important to make sure there is ample room in the top of the shoe, as this may help to avoid friction. It can be beneficial to sit down as often as possible, which may help the heels to feel better. If you would like more information about how to care for your feet while working during the day, please consult with a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many running injuries occur due to the repetitive motion the sport requires. This can often result in overuse. There are a number of reasons running injuries occur, and many of them can be prevented. For example, errors in your training can cause running injuries, as well as poor running form. A lack of stretching or warming up can also lead to damage while running. Wearing the improper footwear is another factor that influences the development of an injury due to running. Some signs of overuse include the gradual onset of pain, the feeling of stiffness or aching after a run, noticeable swelling or tenderness, and overall discomfort during or after a run. If you feel you have an injury caused by running and would like advice on treatment, we suggest you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice and care.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The feet are the foundation of the body, so it’s important to make sure your child’s feet are healthy and well cared for to prepare them for supporting the body as they age. One way of helping your child’s feet gain strength is to allow for proper movement. As they begin to kick and crawl, they are working the muscles in their feet, so supporting this motion will only help them to become stronger. To allow for proper movement, it is also recommended to avoid dressing your child in tightly fitted booties, that way their feet and toes may develop naturally and move freely. Since babies grow quickly, it’s important that you update their footwear to avoid tightly fitted shoes or socks that may cause poor circulation. Washing and thoroughly drying their feet will also help to maintain proper hygiene. For more tips on how to keep your child’s feet healthy, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional care and advice.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An ingrown toenail is a condition that can cause severe pain and discomfort. It occurs as a result of the outer edge of the nail growing into the skin, and can become a serious ailment if it becomes infected. It typically affects the big toe, and it may be difficult to wear the shoes that are normally worn. There are a variety of reasons why ingrown toenails may develop. These can consist of feet that sweat excessively, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and trimming toenails improperly. Patients may notice the side of the nail may look red, and can be tender and swollen. It can be beneficial to soak the affected toe in warm water. This process may make it easier to lift the nail away from the skin by inserting a small piece of cotton over the injured area. If your ingrown toenail becomes severe, it is suggested that you counsel with a podiatrist who can offer you prompt and effective treatment.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A common foot condition that affects numerous patients is referred to as plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This condition focuses on the plantar fascia, which connects the toes to the heels. The arch is supported by this band of tissue, and can be affected as this condition progresses. There are common reasons why plantar fasciitis may gradually develop. These can consist of standing for the majority of the day, existing foot conditions that may include having a rigid Achilles tendon, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Patients may find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated. It may also be beneficial to perform exercises that can strengthen the overall foot. Additionally, it may help to tape the foot which can provide support. If you feel you have this ailment, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common symptoms that are linked to poor circulation can include cold feet, tingling or burning sensations, and swollen feet. There are several reasons why this condition may develop. These can include plaque buildup in the arteries, diabetes, or if there is an existing blood clot. Additionally, patients who smoke, stand for extended periods of time throughout the day, or who are obese may be at risk of developing poor circulation. A diagnosis may consist of testing the blood for elevated glucose levels which may indicate diabetes, as well as performing an ultrasound that can examine your blood vessels. Patients may find moderate relief when compression stockings are worn, which may help to provide a comfortable level of support. If you are suffering from poor circulation, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
